# The Absa purchasing managers’ index has returned to growth territory, rising by 4.9 points to 50.7 in September after three months of contraction. New sales orders also improved, while business activity recovered sharply. However, employment weakened, and manufacturers continued to face higher fuel, transport and input costs. Delays at Durban harbour in KwaZulu-Natal also affected supply deliveries. The outlook improved slightly, with purchasing managers cautiously positive about business conditions over the next six months.
South Africa’s manufacturing sector returns to growth in September